'Yard superstar' Copper Knight lands poignant success for the Easterbys and breakthrough for apprentice at Pontefract

Popular veteran sprinter Copper Knight gained a poignant success for the Easterby family at Pontefract on Monday evening.

The 11-year-old is trained by Tim Easterby, whose father Peter died at the age of 95 earlier in the day, and was bought by the trainer’s son William for a bargain 5,000gns in October 2016.

It was a milestone victory for his rider Jake Dickson, who celebrated his first winner in the 5f apprentice handicap.

William Easterby said on Racing TV: “It’s a fantastic result all round. Copper Knight is a real yard superstar and you couldn’t predict what he’s going to do - he’s a legend.

“My grandad always told me to not give too much for horses at the sales – and Copper Knight was an example of that – and he did really well with horses who didn’t have great reputations.

“Jake gave him a cracking ride and he’s a nice young lad. It’s great to give him the opportunity and it sometimes suits these older horses.”

The dynasty continued: Peter Easterby (centre) with (from left to right) William, Emily Roberts, Tim and ThomasCredit: Edward Whitaker

Dickson, who is originally from the Scottish Borders, joined Easterby from Katie Scott in the spring and steered Copper Knight to a half-length win on his 20th ride.

The winning rider said: “We were all saddened to learn of Peter’s passing and it was brilliant to get a winner in honour of him.

“Copper Knight is so game and it was unbelievable to feel him quicken up. Tim has put faith in me to have a few rides and I’m really glad to repay him.”

Copper Knight has recorded 16 wins in his 106-race career, including seven triumphs at York and four victories at Chester, and has now scored under seven different jockeys.

Read more . . .

'Genius' Peter Easterby hailed as a 'great man and a good friend' following death aged 95 

Peter Easterby is a man who all in racing should be celebrating 

Peter Easterby: a legend who built an empire from next to nothing and etched an indelible mark on British racing 

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